Looking for affordable follow focus gears? Have you considered using a 3D printer? Check out this open source file and create your own.
If you’re using a follow focus system then you know you have to have different lens gears for lenses with different diameters. And you probably know that if you have a decent collection of lenses then you’re going to be spending some money on your follow focus gears. But have you considered using a 3D printer as an affordable alternative?
We found this open source file on Thingiverse and thought it was worth sharing. And yes, open source means it is free to download. The folder contains separate files for a 3D printer, allowing you to custom print follow focus gears with diameters ranging from 50mm to 100mm in .5mm steps. The creator of the files says he’s been using them for over a year. And the page includes tips for getting the best results from your printer.
But what if you don’t have a 3D printer? You can still download the files and use a 3D printing service, and still save money. For example, I price checked a couple of options using Shapeways.com. Depending on which material and color you choose, prices can vary between around $6 for a 50mm size lens gear to around $10 for a 100mm size gear.
For those who have a 3D printer and like to tinker, this looks like an interesting alternative for your follow focus gears. But even those who don’t have their own 3D printers might want to check this out. For more information visit the page on Thingiverse.

I have been waiting for this for a long time for HDSLR work. A zip tie style lens gear. Half Inch Rails has announced a very cost effective lens gear. The lens gear itself is not a zip tie, you simply use two zip ties to attach the gear to the lens. There are four sizes Small (185mm), Medium (210mm), Medium Plus (235mm) and Large (255mm). The lens gears will only cost around £20 or less than ten bucks each! Click here to check it out.